Fairtrade Fortnight

Wednesday, 25th April 2012

Waterford’s One World Centre recently held its Fair Trade fortnight celebrations,and at a time when we need to be very careful about how we spend our money, these celebrations were a reminder of the importance of the Fair Trade movement and how spending a little extra here and there can make a significant difference to a poor farmer or a poor community in the developing world. As most of us go about our everyday lives, we are seldom aware of the numbers of people we are dependent upon or rely on for basic goods. We generally do not know the people who grow or produce the food we eat or make the devices we use every day such as our televisions, toasters, iPods, phones and so on. As we buy our coffee, bananas or chocolate how often do we think of the person who picked the coffee beans or grew and picked the bananas? The inequalities and injustices which workers in the developing world face are hidden because we are so used to buying our goods in the supermarket without a thought as to where the product came from or how ethically it is produced. Out of sight is out of mind as the saying goes. This is where the Fair Trade movement has an important role to play. It shows us how to bridge the gap between the consumer and producer. It helps us become aware that by buying fair trade in Waterford we can help poor farmers to help themselves, their families and their communities.Fair trade also supports the development of sustainable community projects and most importantly it ensures a much fairer deal for all involved. So, while Fair Trade certified products may cost that little bit extra, there is no doubt that it is money well spent.